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n June, the Denton Air Show will take to the skies for its 11th year, celebrating the history and future of aviation.

Hosted by Denton Air Fair, a 501(c)3 nonprofit group dedicated to promoting aviation and the history of aviation, the Denton Air Show features war birds, static display aircraft, military demonstrations, and more.

“There are so many people who have never been up close and personal with an aircraft. And we’ve had so many historic aircraft at our event that it really lets children see what our past was,” says Amanda Addington, who volunteers as marketing director for Denton Air Fair.

>>Ready to Soar

“The thing that is unique and great about the Denton Air Show is that it brings aviation to the citizens of Denton. It gives them a chance to come out and learn about airplanes and flight and things of that nature,” says Tim Whitman, airport manager at Denton Airport.

He says that the air show also provides a chance to showcase the airport as an economic engine of the community.

The airport’s new terminal is on track to be operational by December. Whitman says that the airport is hoping to have a grand-opening celebration for the terminal in conjunction with the air show.

For the 11th annual event, Denton Air Fair is contracting with David Schultz Airshows, a Pennsylvania-based professional aerial event coordinator. The 2008 event will feature aerial exhibitions, aerobatic performers, a military parachute demonstration team, historic military displays, experimental aircraft, and static displays from the local aviation community. It also incorporates former and current pilots and military personnel. KHYI 95.3 FM The Range will do a live broadcast.

>>First Class for Families

The Denton Air Show takes a familyfriendly approach to aviation. “We want to put families first,” Addington says. “This needs to be a family event. That’s why we make sure we keep our prices low so that everyone can come out and enjoy.”

A children’s pavilion features hands-on activities for the kiddos. A variety of food and drink vendors will sell concessions.

Each year Denton Air Fair officials continue to explore ways to improve and expand the air show, Addington says. Local ROTC and Civilian Air Patrol cadets help a great deal with the show, and volunteers are also needed to help with setup, parking, and cleanup.

Addington notes that dates could change to accommodate another air show participant. Check www.dentonlive.com for updates.